Nissan Recalls Several Models for Airbag Defect

ByJonathan Welsh

Nissan is recalling certain Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, Sentra, and Infiniti JX35 vehicles from the 2013 model year to fix a potential problem with their airbag systems.

In a document filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the car maker said sensors that are part of the car’s occupant detection system , or ODS, may have been improperly made.

The ODS senses the whether someone is sitting in the front passenger seat and whether the occupant is a child or small adult who might be injured by the bag. A malfunction due to faulty sensors could keep the bag from inflating when it is needed.

The company said it had not yet determined how many vehicles will be included in the recall. The company has built 87,094 of the affected models since the beginning of 2013, but began building 2013 model-year vehicles since last year.

Under the recall Nissan dealers will inspect the ODS sensors and replace them if necessary. The recall is expected to begin next month. Owners may contact Nissan Customer Service at 800-647-7261.

Nissan is also recalling 392 Sentra vehicles from the 2013 model year to fix fuel tanks that might leak. The company said it built the affected cars from Sept. 11, 2012, through Oct. 4, 2012. Nissan said some of the fuel tank assemblies were not properly sealed during manufacturing and might leak fuel when they are full, causing a potential fire hazard.

Nissan said its dealers replace the fuel tanks as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin later this month.

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